changing tunings

Willbur · #1 12-19-2009, 07:14 PM

ok so my bass is currently in standard (which is usually what i have it in) but i was going to play on a couple tracks for my friend. these are in drop C and i was wondering what precautions i should take for tuning down that far. i know heavier gauge strings, but what should i do about my neck and what not? thanks guys!

Willbur · #2 12-21-2009, 08:55 AM

like adjusting my truss rod etc?

Chasarms · #3 12-21-2009, 09:06 AM

I wouldn't say there are "precautions," but the bass is probably not going to play very well with it's current setup if detuned that much. You will almost certainly have to raise the action at the saddle, and as you suggested, you may also have to loosen the truss rod in order to get it to play to your liking.

You may not have to replace the strings. I'd try first before I bought a set of strings that I couldn't use otherwise.